The Big Island's favorite celebration of all things vegan is back! The second annual Big Island Veg Fest is planned for Saturday, July 8, at Mo‘oheau Bandstand in Downtown Hilo. 

Scheduled for 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the festival will feature a variety of speakers, hands-on activities, food vendors, demos by local chefs, booths showcasing Big Island organizations, live music, and healthy living shopping. 

Food vendors will include Nicoco Hawaiian Gelato, Big Island Grindz and Banzos. Participating retailers will include Periwinkle Moon, Gem Vibrations Jewelry and Kahuna Products. Featured speakers during the festival will include chef Stephen Rouelle from Under the Bodhi Tree and Jana Bogs, who has a doctorate in horticulture and food science.

Participating nonprofit organizations will include the Hawai‘i Animal Kuleana Alliance, Magical Creatures Sanctuary and Big Island Farm Sanctuary, and live music will be provided by musicians such as Kanaka Fyah, Mano Ali‘i and Trill LeBeau.

The Big Island community is encouraged to bring out picnic blankets, folding chairs, reusable utensils, refillable water bottles, and plenty of smiles to come together and celebrate all things veg!

Volunteers are still needed to help make the festival a success. Anyone interested in getting involved can email bigislandvegfest@gmail.com.